What is Alzheimer's?
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, leading to the degeneration and death of neurons.
Early symptoms often include short-term memory loss, difficulty solving problems, and mood changes. As it progresses, it affects essential functions such as the ability to communicate and perform daily activities.
Although there is no definitive cure, scientists continue to investigate treatment options. Among them, methylene blue has emerged as a possible neuroprotective agent.
Common symptoms of Alzheimer's
Some of the most common signs include:
- Difficulty remembering new information.
- Problems with language, reasoning, and judgment.
- Disorientation in time and space.
- Difficulty recognizing objects and people.
- Changes in personality and behavior (apathy, irritability, anxiety).
Alzheimer's is a progressive disease, meaning these symptoms get worse over time.
How does methylene blue work in Alzheimer's?
Research suggests that methylene blue may improve mitochondrial function in the brain, which may help reduce neuronal damage associated with Alzheimer's.
This compound appears to act on several fronts:
- Improves mitochondrial respiration , optimizing cellular energy production.
- Reduces the accumulation of harmful proteins (amyloid plaques and tau tangles).
- Reduces oxidative stress , which contributes to neuronal degeneration.
- Increases glucose uptake and oxygen consumption in brain cells.
These effects may improve memory and concentration in Alzheimer's patients.
Mechanism of action of methylene blue
Scientists have discovered that methylene blue acts as a modulator of mitochondrial function and brain metabolism. Its main actions include:
- Inhibition of tau and beta-amyloid accumulation.
- Reduction of oxidative stress, protecting neurons.
- Optimization of the electron transport chain in mitochondria.
This makes it a promising candidate for slowing the progression of Alzheimer's.
Research on methylene blue and Alzheimer's
Numerous studies have analyzed the impact of methylene blue on the brain:
- University of Texas: One study showed that an oral dose of methylene blue improved the function of brain regions key to memory and concentration.
- TauRx Pharmaceuticals: In a Phase II study, methylene blue showed an 80% reduction in clinical decline in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's.
- ResearchGate (2009): Methylene blue was found to decrease the formation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles , as well as improve mitochondrial function.
- Alzforum (2015): Suggested that methylene blue could prevent the progression of Alzheimer's if administered in the early stages .
These findings support its potential as a neuroprotective treatment.
Patents on methylene blue and Alzheimer's
Some companies have registered patents for the use of methylene blue in neurodegenerative diseases:
- US7534786B2 : Method for the treatment of Alzheimer's with methylene blue administered orally at doses of 50-700 mg/day.
- US7893054B2 : Use of diaminophenothiazine (methylene blue derivative) to prevent protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases.
These patents demonstrate the pharmaceutical industry's interest in this compound.
Results of clinical studies
Phase 2 clinical trial
- 321 patients with mild or moderate Alzheimer's participated.
- The minimum effective dose was identified: 138 mg/day .
- An 80% reduction in cognitive decline was observed over 50 weeks.
Phase 3 clinical trial
- Three studies were conducted with doses between 150-250 mg/day .
- Interestingly, the high dose showed no significant benefits.
- However, in patients receiving 8-16 mg/day as monotherapy , improvements in memory and cognition were observed.
These studies highlight the hormetic effect of methylene blue: at low doses it has beneficial effects, while at high doses it may be less effective.
Hormetic behavior of methylene blue
- At low doses (8-16 mg/day) , methylene blue improves mitochondrial function and memory.
- At high doses (150-250 mg/day) , its effect may decrease or even become counterproductive.
This phenomenon explains why clinical trials with lower doses showed better results.
Conclusion: Is methylene blue a cure for Alzheimer's?
Although methylene blue has shown potential for improving memory and slowing the progression of Alzheimer's, it has not yet been approved as an official treatment.
However, studies suggest that its administration in low doses could offer neuroprotective benefits. Its ability to optimize mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress makes it a promising candidate in the fight against Alzheimer's.
As research progresses, we may be closer to validating its clinical use and making it a viable therapeutic option.
📌 Important note:
Methylene blue should not be consumed by people with G6PD deficiency or taking SSRIs and SNRIs. Always consult a healthcare professional before use.
